Palate reconstruction surgery for Alexandre: covering what insurance won't

In March I was diagnosed with a herniated spinal disc. My surgeon at Saint Francis Hospital recommended palate reconstruction surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for July. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $3,500, and after what my insurance will pay, I'm still $2,450 short. Doctors at Saint Francis Hospital told me a herniated spinal disc will get worse without palate reconstruction surgery. I work as a seamstress, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $3,500 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a seamstress have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Rehabilitation is expected to take about 4 weeks. I'll not be able to climb stairs during that time, so this has become a financial emergency as well as a medical one. I'll pay the hospital and pharmacy directly and post every receipt in the updates section. Where the $2,450 goes: • Travel and lodging for the family: $340 • Hospital stay (4 nights): $1,200 • Post-operative medication: $280 • Physiotherapy sessions: $630 If you're reading this, thank you. - Alexandre